Adewale Adeniyi: Transforming Nigeria Customs Service for Greater Efficiency

The appointment of Adewale Adeniyi as the 31st Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has ushered in a wave of transformative reforms, enhancing efficiency and service delivery within the agency.

Modernizing the Customs Service

Under Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS has implemented innovative strategies that have not only streamlined trade facilitation but also significantly boosted revenue generation. These reforms have reinforced the service’s role as a critical player in economic growth, international trade, and border security.

Legislative Overhaul: A New Legal Framework

One of the major milestones achieved during Adeniyi’s tenure is the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, signed into law on April 20, 2023. This law replaces outdated customs regulations, ensuring a modernized, autonomous, and internationally compliant customs administration under the supervision of the Minister of Finance.

Strategic Reforms for Efficiency

Adeniyi introduced several key reforms aimed at improving trade processes and customs operations:

Time Release Study (TRS): This tool, developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), helps identify delays in the clearance of goods, allowing for more efficient trade processing.
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program: Recognizing compliant businesses in international trade, this initiative strengthens the supply chain and improves security.
Customs Trade Modernization Project (TMP): Launched in 2022, this project is expected to generate $250 billion in revenue and create employment opportunities as the NCS expands its workforce.

Boosting Revenue and Trade Facilitation

Adeniyi’s reforms have led to record-breaking revenue collection, with the NCS generating over N5 trillion in 2024 and setting an ambitious target of N6 trillion for 2025.

Through strategic stakeholder engagement, legal modernization, and cutting-edge trade facilitation measures, the Nigeria Customs Service is now better positioned to drive economic growth, enhance security, and improve global trade efficiency.